Empowering Female Voices: The Impact of Produce 101 on Self-Worth and Gender Equality

Reality television has become a dominant cultural force, influencing views and ideals. Produce 101, a Chinese talent competition show, goes beyond entertainment to empower its female competitors and promote gender equality. This qualitative study dives into the show's mechanics, examining its impact on female participants' self-esteem and its role in shaping viewer attitudes. Based on 10 in-depth interviews with senior talent show fans, the study investigates audience involvement, candidate development, and societal standards. The findings highlight the show's significant impact on empowering women and promoting gender equality narratives. providing valuable insights for individuals considering reality TV participation, emphasizing the importance of self-confidence, resilience, and determination. It showcases how contestants on Produce 101 leveraged their experiences to advance their careers and advocate for gender equality, inspiring others to pursue their passions and embrace empowerment. By highlighting the transformative potential of reality television, this study underscores its role in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society, demonstrating that reality TV can be a powerful platform for social change.